mslater (Matt Slater) says...

They were 80 year old metal sheds. Who gives a sh!t?

February 23, 2011 at 11:53 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...

The fairgrounds now have a clean cut look and the stones seem to be more beautiful.

February 23, 2011 at 12:34 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

americus1987 (anonymous) says...

I was mixed on the issue at first but now I can't wait to see the bowyer building go up.

February 23, 2011 at 12:51 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...

How do you really feel Matt?

Thanks for the laugh !

February 23, 2011 at 12:55 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Tell (anonymous) says...

I really don't care if the quonset huts were tore down but I do wonder why we paid a outside contractor to do the work. What I mean is the county owns dump trucks and heavy equipment why didn't we use our own forces do to the work? The county could have hauled the metal to the recycling center and the concrete to their yard or a place that could use some erosion control. Maybe it was cheaper to pay a outside source I don't remember what the amount was we paid 12 or 16 thousand. Seems like some people thought they were pretty valuable maybe we could have put them out for bid for people to buy them and remove them.

February 23, 2011 at 12:58 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Tell (anonymous) says...

I really don't care if the quonset huts were tore down but I do wonder why we paid a outside contractor to do the work. What I mean is the county owns dump trucks and heavy equipment why didn't we use our own forces do to the work? The county could have hauled the metal to the recycling center and the concrete to their yard or a place that could use some erosion control. Maybe it was cheaper to pay a outside source I don't remember what the amount was we paid 12 or 16 thousand. Seems like some people thought they were pretty valuable maybe we could have put them out for bid for people to buy them and remove them. We could have made money to have them removed.

February 23, 2011 at 12:59 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Tell (anonymous) says...

whoops? Dang misfire!

February 23, 2011 at 1:11 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

tourguide (anonymous) says...

I just moved back to town to find it has gone to hell.Downtown is dead, the Fair grounds are stripped, and somebody made a ton of money selling Emporia ROCKS ? What is going on? Look if you dont like the people that are running the city, FIRE THEM !! You won't get it done because it's still the same old group of crooks. 1st. take their salary away and force them to work for free. Now see how many care about the town or bail out. glad I was told about this Bitch line. Now you will find out what a FOUNDING FATHER THINKS ABOUT his poor little towns DEATH..

February 23, 2011 at 1:13 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

tourguide (anonymous) says...

I just moved back to town to find it has gone to hell.Downtown is dead, the Fair grounds are stripped, and somebody made a ton of money selling Emporia ROCKS ? What is going on? Look if you dont like the people that are running he city, FIRE THEM !! You won't get it done because it's still the same old group of crooks. 1st. take their salary away and force them to work for free. Now see how many care about the town or bail out. glad I was told about this Bitch line. Now you will find out what a FOUNDING FATHER THINKS ABOUT his poor little towns DEATH..

February 23, 2011 at 1:14 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

TexasGirl (anonymous) says...

Hmmm... all the comments from the "Piece of the Rock" thread are gone.

February 23, 2011 at 4:04 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...

Great Caesars Ghost!

A founding father of Emporia is posting on the threads from the grave.

Let's see, Emporia was founded in Feb, 1857. So that makes you at least 154 years old.

Or if you are posting from heaven, look around for a guy named biscuit boy. He'd love to argue with you up there.

February 23, 2011 at 4:19 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...

tourguide, sorry !

welcome to the forums.

I don't think our city commissioners are in the job for the money. $500.00 per month ain't going to cut it. Everything looks kind of bleak in the winter months. Wait till spring. Downtown and the fairgrounds will look so much better.

February 23, 2011 at 4:24 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...

Ray Call wrote a book about Emporia's ascent from 1950 to 2000. One chapter was called Stonehenge. "A new landmark was created for the town in 1992. It was put up by a group of Kansas stone carvers at the cornor of US 50 and Industrial Road as a civic project. The monument's official name is "Prairie Passage," although some Emporia wags dubbed it "Emporia's Stonehenge." because it looks like a centuries old tourist attraction in England........The monument, on the southwest cornor of the fairgrounds, features 4 towering pillers of native limestone on a landscaped base. Each of the stones is a tribute to someone from Emporia's past. The two most familiar figures depicted are the town's co-founder Preston B. Plumb, and famed Emporia Gazette editor, William Allen White. The other 2 depict Nathaniel Lyon, a Civil War General for whom the county is named; and Alahe an Indian.......Prairie Passage was conceived to mark an entry into the Flint Hills and tourist attractions to the West such as the Z Bar Ranch and the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve."........Richard Stauffer was the lead artist of this project. At one time there was talk that these monuments were to be the entrance monuments and then there was talk about moving them near the turnpike where KDOT was to let the City lease 10 acres for free for a tourist center, but that project was put on hold. If this should ever happen a public hearing should occur with design of the project. I requested a public hearing on the monuments and there locations. I just pray that these new opaque stumbling blocks will be stepping stones to a diverse transparent Emporia.

February 23, 2011 at 4:44 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...

As I understand, the monumets at the Fairgrounds was donated by the artist and his widow lives in Emporia and I think some native grass would complement the project.

February 23, 2011 at 5 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

conner (anonymous) says...

The current Commissioner's are the best we've ever had! They care about this county and try to make the best decisions for the majority and for the future of our county. Why hang on to something that's outdated and limited in it's usefulness when you can make the choice to help us get something better? it was a good choice, but they didn't make it lightly. They take their jobs very seriously and do a great job!

February 23, 2011 at 9:34 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

conner (anonymous) says...

I should clarify the original article was about the County Commissioners, my comment was in reference to the County Commissioners being the best ever. I do not hold the City Commissioners in high regard nor do I support the rock project.

February 23, 2011 at 9:44 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

jasond (anonymous) says...

The quonsent huts are gone, but so is the north entrance arch which was damaged. I have not heard of any plans to repair or replace the arch.

February 24, 2011 at 12:17 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...

5 dollar gas.
http://lindseywilliams101.blogspot.co...

February 24, 2011 at 1:35 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

tourguide (anonymous) says...

?? K.B. What does the price of gas have to do with the commissioners, fair grounds or ROCKS. WE have nice interstate signs now that direct the lost to Emporia.If they need a ROCK to tell them where they are, they don't need to be driving.That old pipe arch at the fair grounds was an eye sore anyway the huts are gone, so where did they go ? if they got scrapped who got the money? Who is related to the contractor hired to remove them? When Clint has his building put up is he going to repave the driveways also? clean up the fair grounds or give them back..

February 24, 2011 at 7:45 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

tourguide (anonymous) says...

steve, my family has been here since before the civil war. My great grandfather built homes here in the 1800's. I have been here since 1950. When did you get here? so I had a type o . I should have said grandson of a founding father. S@%T HAPPENS..You will hear from me more than you want. $500 dollars is chump change.But stop all pay and see how devoted to Emporia they are.City Commissioners should work for free.

February 24, 2011 at 8:05 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...

tourguide,

The county awarded a 16 K bid for demolition of the huts. The local contractor who did the job had the rights to keep or sell any of the debris. Don't know what relatives of the contractor has to do with anything, they BID the job. You are right, the arches at the entrances look like sh-t.

And I think the new building will have a new drive and parking lot.

Your idea of cleaning up the fairgrounds is a good one. You Can help. Donations can be made to the fairboard or the Emporia Community Foundation.

February 24, 2011 at 8:14 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...

Hey, that's what these forums are for. I like to debate (argue) the issues. It's when they become completely negative and people start the name calling, then the discussion really breaks down. Some humor thrown in once in a while doesn't hurt , does it?

So I apologize for my comment if you took offense to it.

In answer to your question of my residency i was born here in 1952. I'm not sure of where my ancestors came from, but they were here for a while.

You are right $500.00 isn't much when you consider the work the commission does. I don't begrudge any of them that money. Some of them may actually turn around and donate their pay to worthwhile projects.

So let's argue or agree, whatever. I will try to keep my ideas on point. Hope you will too.

February 24, 2011 at 8:32 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

landinkansas (anonymous) says...

I was in town last weekend. Looks much better with huts gone. Looking foreword to the new look. I agree with Steve, Arches gotta go.....

February 24, 2011 at 8:33 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

GreatDayInEmporia (anonymous) says...

Disappointing.

There was no reason the quonsets needed to be completely removed. People offered money, time, and research in efforts to update them.

Without encroaching upon the new building site, a single updated and painted quonset could have been a very unique and colorful asset to the fairgrounds, and new community building.

Mr. Bowyer has made a very gracious gift and I hope that in future planning, historical and cultural elements are incorporated, rather than ignored.

February 25, 2011 at 10:09 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

GreatDayInEmporia (anonymous) says...

What will replace the historic arches (which also could have been updated and painted, adding a unique architectural element)?

February 25, 2011 at 10:12 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...

What is that red and white shack out there now?

Anyone know?

February 25, 2011 at 10:13 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

GreatDayInEmporia (anonymous) says...

Mr. Corbin,

Out of curiosity, what kind of constructive suggestions have you offered regarding the updating and maintenance of the fairgrounds?

It seems as though you don't have very many ideas of your own, and instead create (subjective) arguments based on criticizing the ideas of others.

February 25, 2011 at 10:29 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...

GreatDayInEmporia,

didn't realize I was criticizing the ideas of others.
What are you referring too?

February 25, 2011 at 10:36 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...

As far as ideas;

1. The quonset huts are already down.
2. As the Bowyer building is being built, perhaps get rid of some overhead utility lines.
3. Replace the "historic" ??????????? entrance arches with something more substantial (maybe brick gateways?)
4.A coat of paint on some of the buildings / sheds.
5. Some native trees planted around the perimeter of the property. This was tried about 20 years ago, businesses donated 100 dollars a tree and supposedly the 4-H clubs were going to water them for a couple of years to keep them alive, but look what is left out there now. There were quite a few planted.
6. Eventually a new grandstand with large restrooms.

Lots of expense there, granted, but the Granada and the Arts Center, Hetlinger Center did it.

February 25, 2011 at 11:10 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Tell (anonymous) says...

Nice job Corbin going around hurting peoples feelings

I think that "shed" is a display for the spring expo. Should be a good weekend for that.

February 25, 2011 at 11:33 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

GreatDayInEmporia (anonymous) says...

Mr. Corbin,

I'm referring to your opinions that you voice so adamantly (while commenting that other people sound like "Barney Fife" or saying things "look like sh t") without research or data to support your argument.

Though I want to, I have a hard time taking you seriously because you seem so combative and quick to speak.

On the flip side, your piece on voting today was great. Glad you wrote it. Emporia had great voter turnout in the 2008 elections, and I hope that continues Voting makes a difference- especially locally!!

February 25, 2011 at 11:34 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

sail (anonymous) says...

I like my commish, Mr. Biggs....

February 25, 2011 at 11:42 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

HenryVIII (anonymous) says...

GreatDayInEmporia,
Just because something is old doesn't make it "historical" or "cultural". Think about old cars. The Ford Model T was "historical" because it was the first of its kind. A 1958 Chevy Impala was "cultural" because it was really cool. The entrance signs and metal sheds on the fair grounds are more like a 1971 Ford Pinto. You're better off trading it in for something better than trying to fix it up!
That's what we're doing with the Fairgrounds, we're getting rid of the crappy, irrelevant old stuff and bringing in the new. You need to learn to let go, pal.
'enry

February 25, 2011 at 11:42 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

GreatDayInEmporia (anonymous) says...

Mr. Corbin,

There you go! That list is great!

Although, "The quonset huts are already down," is more of a fact than an idea, unfortunately.

I love the reminder of the tree initiative. Let's hope that round two of community involvement is more successful.

Volunteer painting and landscaping (under the supportive and organized guidance of the fair commission) would easily and inexpensively improve the appearance of the grounds, as well as enhance the new building.

Sorry for being obnoxious about the quonset huts, I just love the fairgrounds and don't want the area to lose its unique character or history.

February 25, 2011 at 11:49 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...

sail, i kind of like the guy too.

GreratDayInEmporia,

As you said, subjective argument.

Subjective arguments are based on opinion and feelings.

It was my feeling that the quonset huts should come down.
It is my feeling that the archways look like s??t.

It is my objective opinion that the archways are not historic.

And who did I say sounded like barney fife?

In case you haven't noticed these threads are full of opinions and feelings. this is not the place for strictly objective arguments.

Thank you for your compliment on the voting piece, I guess we will just disagree on the fairgrounds, and probably other things as well.

February 25, 2011 at 12:08 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...

GreatDayInEmporia,

Just read your other post, So when it comes to painting or planting a tree, give me a hollar. Can't do it myself because of physical limitations, but am willing to kick in some money>

February 25, 2011 at 12:11 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

methusla (anonymous) says...

whoa, tourguide, chill out, calm down, just a little !

Now before you go off on me, I have been an EMPORIAN all my life, have lived here, nearly all my life, almost 70 years !

I would like to ask you, why did you move away and more importantly, why did you move back to Emporia ?

And just because you claim to be a relative of a founding father, does not make Emporia, specifically " Your Town " !

Yes, all of us know that Emporia has gone to " the dogs ", however that is not our fault ! It just so happens that, perhaps we trusted the wrong people we voted for as City Commissioners and did so more than once and that is, most likely our fault ! But hopefully the ucoming Commissioner election will hopefully change that, for the better !

Exactly who was your relative that founded Emporia, Preston Plumb, a Soden, who by the way built one of the first buildings and businesses in the Emporia area and whom Sodens Grove is named for, so exactly which are you claiming to be related to ?

February 25, 2011 at 12:17 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

methusla (anonymous) says...

Oh, and welcome back to Emporia !

Yes there is work to be done to get Emporia back, on track, so to speak and it is going to take all of us as voters to vote intelligently and with knowledge of the Comission Candidates, in order to " Rerail the Emporia train, that has gone off track " so to speak , and 3 new engineers, conductor and brakeman, may just do the trick !!

February 25, 2011 at 12:32 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

create (anonymous) says...

Steve, I'm glad you reminded us about those trees. I remember that project now, and yes, they all died when the 4Hers did not water them.

Something else the 4-H clubs are supposed to do is mow those grounds. I always see grown ups doing it. Then the grass along the curbs is allowed to grow long and drape into the roadways. Very unsightly. I hope with the new building that this sloppy practice changes.

February 25, 2011 at 2:13 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

justaflushaway (anonymous) says...

greatday, you said:

"What will replace the historic arches (which also could have been updated and painted, adding a unique architectural element)?"

What the hell are you talking about, HISTORIC ARCHES??? you got to be kidding! and paint would add a unique architectural element??? amazing,, and why did you copy the emporia chamber of commences words?? do you have a tattoo of that on you arm? do you wear good-buddy hats?? do you love stinking solomians?? are you running for city commissioner??? yep,, thought so.

February 25, 2011 at 2:17 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

been_there (anonymous) says...

Create - The 4-H clubs are not in charge of mowing the fairgrounds. The Fair Board would be in charge of that. The 4-H clubs are responsible for cleaning up trash before, during and after the fair and we try to organize annually to paint any of the buildings, stalls, fixtures, etc.
I think it would be a great idea to organize a group of folks to clean up and/or rehabilitate locations throughout Emporia. I'm not talking about just the Fairgrounds or just setting up the Trash Bins and hauling away everyone's appliances and furniture that is stored on the front porch but actually concentrating on one area of town at a time. Helping out neighbors who can't clean their gutters or repair a broken screen. People who can't get out and get all the trash out of their yard that has blown into it due to physical limitations. I think it would be a great project for some of the children of Emporia or surrounding areas to get out and help people and learn what it's like to do something for nothing, just because it makes you feel good!

February 25, 2011 at 3:31 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

goodoleboy (anonymous) says...

Heard this morning something about the Bowyer project not qualifying for Jones funds and the city was going to have to find the money, damn those rocks still sound like a great idea eh?

February 25, 2011 at 10:35 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...

goodoleboy,

County commission.

Applied for a grant from Jones fund for parking lot and utilities relocate, I think.

The county is in control of the fairgrounds.

Although it might not hurt the city to kick in about 250 k from the transient guest tax next year to help with the project. Once completed the Bowyer building might actually bring visitors to town.

I for one am tired of the city giving the CVB almost 400k a year with no public accounting of how it's spent. For that amount of tax money our city commission can hold those funds and after a once yearly public meeting, decide how to spend it for tourism.

February 26, 2011 at 7:44 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

goodoleboy (anonymous) says...

Yeah Steve, point is that I feel everyone could get behind 150k towards the Bowyer building, I believe the number I heard that was going to have be found for the loss of the Jones fund was around 200k, don't hold me to that but either way, would have been no argument from me to funnel the money spent on stones to that building.

February 26, 2011 at 7:56 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

methusla (anonymous) says...

I guess I don' t understand exactly what is going on !!

So the Bowyer gift will not be built on the Fair Grounds unless the City can raise $100,000 or $ 200,000 ?

For what, I thought this was a done deal and that the Bowyer gift, trust, whatever was footing the entire bill, but I guess that the Bowyer trust is just paying for the construction of the Building, is that the way it is ?

Did the City Commission or County Commission put their cart before the horse and forget the special stiipulation that old outlaw E. T. Andersons made when he donated the land to the citizens to be used as a Fair Ground and a Fair Ground only ??

Is this just another example of a " not so well thought out plan " by our Commissions and Commissiioners, as well as othe " PUSHY AGENCIES AND PEOPLE " !

Ah yes, " The best laid plans of mice and men " !!

This example is just why a lot of us on these threads have said that there is and has been no " Planning, Thought, Research and more Planning, Thought and Research " before jumping in with both feet !

Don' t get me wrong, I would like to see the Bowyer building built just as much as anyone !! However it would seem that the Fair Grounds is not the ideal place to build it, because of certain conditions put on the use of the donated Fair Grounds property !

And exactly what is the $100,000 or $200,000 dollars to be used for ?

That certain condition that was put on the Fair Grounds property by old man Anderson, seems to have pretty much tied the hands of both the City, County and Clint Bower from building anything on what is essentially Salvation Army property, if the conditions of the use of the land are not followed to the letter !!

But, like I said, I do not understand the whole thing !!

February 26, 2011 at 8:32 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

create (anonymous) says...

been_there,

Thanks for the info on 4H and responsibility for the fairgrounds. My apologies to the 4H clubs for thinking they were doing such a sloppy job of mowing. It's the County!!! Still not impressed.

Also, I like your idea of volunteer groups for clean up and fix up for those who are physically unable as long as they don't sue if they get hurt on the job. Always a consideration when ladders are involved.

Speaking of clean ups. Commercial Street is an embarrassing mess. In front of the Downtown Cafe is terrible! Then I stopped at Graves a couple of days ago and found tons of cigarette butts in the gutters, and of all things, a damn dirty diaper!!! What the hell is wrong with people? They just don't give a damn!

I'd like to be there to see some pig drop a dirty diaper in the street. Filthy people!!!

Yes, yes, I know, we've had a lot of snow. The chat is bad enough, but those gutters are filled with all kinds of litter that should be picked up all the time. They do it in the northern cities where people are employed to go around picking up that stuff. Why just let all that stuff lay there?

Hey Main Street -- How about you? What can you do about all the trash on Commercial?

Hey Chamber of Commerce -- How about you?

Hey CVB -- How about you? You spent ten thousand dollars on a magazine ad. Might you have planned for a part time position cleaning up Commercial? How's that ad working for ya?

No, we can't rely on volunteers that only do that work at their own convenience. No, it needs to be cleaned regularly by a hired hand. Even one person would work. And please don't suggest jailbirds because that involves another paid position that can't be spared. You can't just turn 'em loose to sweep the streets without a chaser.

Okay, fire away everybody because here I am wanting to spend money we don't have. But damn, look at Commercial Street, would you please. It sucks!

February 26, 2011 at 8:40 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

create (anonymous) says...

BTW, Anderson didn't want those Quonset huts to be taken down. Might he have a hand in all this?

February 26, 2011 at 8:44 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...

Whoa there meth,

We are just speculating here. the city has nothing to do with this. wait till we get the newspaper to see what was discussed by the county commission.

February 26, 2011 at 8:53 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

methusla (anonymous) says...

O.k., I understand that the $100,000 to $200,000 that is needed is for a paved parking lot , utility upgrades, access roads !

And the county does not have complete control of the Fair Ground property . Old E. T. Anderson
maintains control over what the property can be used for, even though he is no longer alive !

Once the Bowyer building is completed that it might bring visitors to town, is like saying, Entrance Rocks will bring visitors, jobs and tourists to town !

I have said for years that the RDA, COC, CVB, EBF or any organization that is given taxpayer funds, should be more close monitored, etc., before any funds are released to them and why are the people that were elected or hired to do the Citys / Peopes business can not seem to do what the " Parasite " organizations are doing with the money, mainly wasting it ! What does the City Manager do for his $100,000 + + per year salary and what will the proposed City Planner do for his the salary he will be paid ?

It would seem that Emporia was doing much better without the RDA, COC, CVB, EBF, etc. ! I believe even better than today !! And I believe that it was because the leacers of the City , the City Commission and the individual commonsense, thinking people, such as Carl Didde, Don Glaser, Joe Cannon, etc., had the welfare and best interests of, not only, the City of Emporia, but the welfare and best interests of all the people / taxpayers of Emporia at heart !!

These individuals of vision, like most people of vision, thought of themselves as common as the rest of the people of Emporia and had the forsight and decensy to listen to all the people and consider what the people had to say and needed, instead of what they alone " WANTED " !

O.k., thats it for now, I need to calm down and let my blood pressure settle down !!

JMO

February 26, 2011 at 8:57 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

methusla (anonymous) says...

Sorry, Steve and everyone, but, everytime something good seems to be going to happen, there is always a glitch of some kind and ends up costing, everyone or someone more in the way of taxes or donations ! And to me donating to a Government project is like a TAX, I can not distinguish between the two, except that a donation is supposed to be a one time thing and yet once the donating starts, it seems to just keep going on and on each month or year, just like a TAX !

Whew! Thats all I have to say right now !

February 26, 2011 at 9:05 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...

create,

I don't want the city to hire someone to keep commercial street cleaned up. I want to try to do it myself and so should every other property owner downtown. I had to laugh about the diaper, was it a depends? We've dealt with baby diapers before. Do you ever get downtown early in the morning and see the help at Browns shoe store sweeping up their store front? EVERY DAY IT IS OPEN !
Then look right next door at the carpet store.
Does that store even have a broom?
We have a store like that next to our bar. take a look at the dollar store across from the post office. I know it's not the store owners responsibility to clean up after SOME of their pig customers, but it is good business.

SO COMMERCIAL STREET BUILDING / BUSINESS OWNERS. sweep up the sidewalks once in a while, and while your at it, it use the broom along the street gutter, it won't kill you, and it will make people think you actually care.

February 26, 2011 at 9:13 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Quack (anonymous) says...

Create:

You suppose there is any chance county jail inmates could be used for clean up? Either downtown or at the fairgrounds? Probably cost to much in supervision, but Shawnee County is using inmate clean up crews on hiways around Topeka. Maybe cut some sentence time off for giving back to the community.

February 26, 2011 at 9:16 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Quack (anonymous) says...

OK, Sorry Create, just re-read your posting about not suggesting jailbirds, but why not? Yes, it might add to expenses in operating the jail some due to increased staffing, but we get cleaner community areas, and the "jailbirds" get to do something besides sit and watch Oprah.It also might provide some regularity with which the clean up is done, rather than relying on volunteers now and then as we do at present

February 26, 2011 at 9:24 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

methusla (anonymous) says...

Well, create, that seems to be the in VOGUE thing to do today in this bad econonmy and anytime, spend money that is not there ! So it would seem there is nothing wrong with your thinking ! However, do you really believe that the COC, CVB or Main Street is going to do anything themselves or hire anyone, or pay anyone to do a meanial job like street sweeping ? After all the City already has a paid street sweeper who drives a truck to keep the streets clean !!

February 26, 2011 at 9:27 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

create (anonymous) says...

I think it's a great idea, Quack, but they have to pay a deputy as a chaser to watch these people clean up. That's the only drawback. I guess that's a question for our new sheriff. Of course this time of year they have to have coats, etc. I can see it happening though.

Thanks for the comeback, Steve. Yes, I have noticed how Brown's is always clean in front of their store and in their gutters. Thank you, Browns!!!

But you're right about the carpet store next door. Always dirty, anytime of year. Graves too.

Hey Commercial Street Businesses, do you people own a broom and dustpan?

February 26, 2011 at 9:29 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

methusla (anonymous) says...

The only problem with using jailhouse labor, is the fact that, 1. The City or County really can' t afford to pay for the extra " Security Guards " that would be required to watch the " Prisoners ", 2. Then there is the ACLU !!!

This is pretty much off topic here, but there have been several people on theses threads that say, we want high paying good jobs for Emporia ! These people need to go to the following site and recieve a real eye opener !

A U.S. recovery built on low-paying jobs

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/41781471/...

February 26, 2011 at 9:52 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

methusla (anonymous) says...

It would seem that low paying jobs and tough economic times are here for a long run !

While costs and prices continue to rise, for greedy profits sake !!

And our leaders are at a complete loss as to how to solve the problem ... except to go farther int debt, to the tune of $ 3 trillion dollars of, more than likely, either borrowed money or newly printed money or dipping, once again into a steadily withering S.S. trust fund !!

February 26, 2011 at 9:57 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

methusla (anonymous) says...

So, if you go to the above mentioned site and after reading it, you come away with the idea that " Tourism " is going to be the wave of Emporias' future .... then you much more optimistic about " Tourism " , the Bowyer Building and Rocks bringing touism and high paying jobs to Emporia, than I am !!

February 26, 2011 at 10:01 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

marko (anonymous) says...

The space people are allergic to tobacco smoke, it is awful that we now have so little of it available to repel them when they take over our bars. (that was part of their diabolical plan to turn the earth into a tourism destination resort)

February 26, 2011 at 11:05 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

emporian (anonymous) says...

I have inquired about the chain gangs and such like they do down in Maricopa County, AZ. I was told for a force of our size it was cost prohibitive. Who knows.

February 26, 2011 at 11:21 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

flyboy32 (anonymous) says...

I'm with Matt. WTF?

February 26, 2011 at 11:36 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...

cornfusing aint it?

February 26, 2011 at 11:44 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...

meth,

Now don't get all stirred up but i am speculating that the cost for parking utility upgrades will be closer to a million dollars, or more.

And when I said,"Once completed the Bowyer building might actually bring visitors to town." I meant that at least there will be a building available for meetings, sales, parties and such which COULD bring people into town. It would be hard to have a wedding reception or a class reunion at one of the rock locations, don't you think?

I understand your thinking on donations and charitable giving, believe you me. The difference is a person can choose to donate, or not, to what they consider a good cause, while a tax is something you have to pay whether you like it or not.

I expect the county and we taxpayers to help pay for the cost of upkeep and maintenance of the fairgrounds. Large capital projects should be funded with private donations, if at all possible.

If the money can't be raised privately, and the county has it in their budget, then I wouldn't object to it being put to use on the fairgrounds.

After the entrance rocks issue, however, I would not vote to extend the "court house" tax when the courthouse is paid off this spring.

February 26, 2011 at 12:36 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...

And I am speculating that the county commission is planning on doing just that.

February 26, 2011 at 12:43 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

hometownkid (anonymous) says...

hey steve-

I would come help clean up and sweep downtown, just like I did on the city wide clean sweep. I think its a great idea you have! Maybe the weekend before the big sidewalk sale or something. " Bring your brooms and buckets downtown!"

I hope that with more effort we "emporians who care" can talk others into helping out with our community. Either with a broom, bucket, or check book.

Meth- do you need a nap or something? You seem so upset most of the time you post here? Just saying-

Hometownkid

February 26, 2011 at 1:08 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

methusla (anonymous) says...

Steve, I will have to agree with you on you spectulation about the courthouse tax being extended to take care of the Fairgrounds project !!!

When was the last time you can recall, when a tax was supposed to expire that it actually did just that, EXPIRE ??

I can' t even remember the last time !!

February 26, 2011 at 1:57 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

justaflushaway (anonymous) says...

does anyone remember when the city had its street sweeper machine out around 3;00AM? they were able to clean the streets easy as there no cars parking on the west or on others days, parking on the east side,, worked great and the down town main shopping streets was clean for people to shop..

Guess they cant do that anymore since the city idiot commissioners has to make sure zimmy get ALL the money for his wisdom, and being the one to watch over us,

February 27, 2011 at 10:02 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

methusla (anonymous) says...

hometownkid,

Nope, don' t need a nap ! In Emporia if you, as a taxpayer, ' Snooze, you lose " and there have been too many taxpayers and voters snoozing or napping for far too long and possibly have finally awoke to what has been going on in City Hall !

When you have seen the shieanigans, deception and just plain underhandedness that has been done, is beeing done to the taxpayers by city hall and its leaders for so long, it is very hard for one to be anything other than upset and continually wondering what the next " RUSE " to put all of Emporias citizens in debt, will be !!

February 27, 2011 at 10:35 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

booker5m (anonymous) says...

I have always liked the old chain gang system. The city and county could both use it. Keep the streets clean and county roads nice. Put them out at the fairgrounds also make those stones outthere all nice and shiny.

February 27, 2011 at 10:39 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

methusla (anonymous) says...

The Commission primary vote is Tuesday !

Don' t snooze or nap ! Get out and VOTE, VOTE, VOTE it is your right and the one sure way to try to
have a voice in govt. and to change things !!

And then do the same thing in APRIL !

Lets show all of Emporia that we do care about ourselves and our City !!

MARCH 1ST. , VOTE

February 27, 2011 at 10:41 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

GreatDayInEmporia (anonymous) says...

@HenryVIII
The old arch entry was both historical (related to the known or recorded past) and cultural (referring to what was part of a particular form or stage of civilization, at a particular time and place). Yes, it was rusting and peeling and had seen better days, but an afternoon of sanding, powerwashing, and painting could have easily made it look really sharp. The "crappy, irrelevant old stuff" has played a significant role in Emporia's heritage as the county fair has been a valuable annual tradition for young and old.

@Steve_Corbin
When it is time for tree-planting and general landscape updating, I will definitely give you a call. I am moving back to Emporia this summer and am excited to spend some time planning, weed-pulling, and planting. :)

Indeed, subjective arguments contribute to discussion; however, facts and educated statements will help this forum to be taken seriously. I was deeply annoyed when Steve Sauder said, "Anonymous blogs should receive no creditability."

Let's make him listen to us- there are many people participating in Gazette comment threads that have great information and ideas to offer. As yev_kassem said, "We need to pull together as a city, get the right leaders in place and shape the city in the best way for all citizens."

By forming sound and valid (objective) arguments within these comment threads, and continuing to speak up, this forum will be a lot more difficult for Mr. Sauder and other community leaders to ignore.

Also, the CVB receives an absurd allotment from the city budget. Let's keep talking about it.

@justaflushaway
The entry arch was known or established in the past and a part of a significant collective tradition, the county fair, making it historic.

I used the Chamber of Commerce phrase because I WANT it to be a great day in my hometown. I have had a hot pink and blue Positively Emporia! pin on my bulletin board since grade school and it serves as reminder of what achievements have been reached, and what great potential exists within the community. I would answer your other inquiries, but I can't figure out what in the world you're talking about.

February 27, 2011 at 3:53 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

GreatDayInEmporia (anonymous) says...

@been_there
Your idea to organize a community-wide effort is great. I work in a grade school in San Antonio and community service is part of our curriculum. The children learn about their fellow man and the world around them, take pride in the work they are doing, and usually have fun doing it!

To brighten Emporia, groups comprised of members from middle school and high school clubs, Kiwanis, Sertoma, and downtown business owners could work together for impressive, inexpensive, and visible results. @create suggested these efforts could be spearheaded by an agency such as Emporia Main Street, the Chamber of Commerce, or the (amply funded) CVB. This could be a great way to generate enthusiasm for current and future projects, and help neighbors in need, as well as renew a sense of pride in the community.

@methusla
When donating the fairgrounds, my grandfather and great-grandfather did not intend to tie the hands of anyone. They intended to ensure a usable space, free of commercial development, would be available to the youth of Emporia, and the community at large. To my knowledge, the only steadfast stipulation is that the annual county fair continues to be held on the premise; there is nothing prohibiting or restricting additional use.

Though they are no longer around to ask, I know they would be proud of Mr. Bowyer's hard work and gracious donation of the new multi-use building. What a way to give back to the people of Lyon County!

Also, this is from a previous post, but I think it warrants a repeat:

"Tourism” doesn’t mean necessarily mean attracting people to the town for vacation. Many visit the city for a sporting event, meeting, or academic engagement, and leave upon its conclusion. However, with marketing (POSITIVELY Emporia) and continued attention to local infrastructure, these individuals and families could be encouraged to spend a few extra hours exploring the area, going out to dinner, perhaps even spending the night.

@hometownkid
You sum up my sentiments entirely with your statement, "I hope that with more effort we 'emporians who care' can talk others into helping out with our community. Either with a broom, bucket, or check book."

Let's make it a great day in Emporia!

February 27, 2011 at 3:53 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

REWBA (anonymous) says...

GreatDayInEmporia, That was the most awesome ranting post I have read in a long time. Great Job!

February 27, 2011 at 6:11 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Blue_Dog (anonymous) says...

Meth,
The last tax like the courthouse passed by the county was for the Jail it was (it paid off 6 years early if memory serves me).
The courthouse sales tax CANNOT be extended in any fashion it must sunset at or near (months) of bond payoff.

February 27, 2011 at 8:42 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

scole2009 (anonymous) says...

Hello all. We talk to much and do to little. I'm not sure what the answer is. This is what I do know. I have tried for the last 4 years to bring nice money making ventures to this town, concerts, sporting events, and entertainers. The CVB was useless, the commisioners in place were unhelpful, and overall the entire city staff was agressively pessimistic. The best thing I have heard on here all day is grab your broom and head downtown. I have read about "flash mobs" that perform dances, or do simple tasks. Why can't we have mobs of volunteers who just show up and clean. Its a start. I say lets do it on the forums. Involving the city/county is asking for failure. This session started, by asking for a recall. To costly. Lets just start ignoring them, county, city, and CVB. Together we can fix our town. The little things start adding up pretty quick. Before anyone questions my motives, I am not running for office, looking for a job, or trying to impress people. I just want to help.
Stephen Cole

February 27, 2011 at 9:33 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...

Blue_Dog,

I think meth was responding to me about "extending" the court house tax. While that tax has to expire when the bonds are paid off, it does not preclude the commissioners from asking for a vote on another one to fund fairground improvements. that's what we were talking about, hence my statement,

"After the entrance rocks issue, however, I would not vote to extend the "court house" tax when the courthouse is paid off this spring."

Should have said, "after the entrance rocks issue, I would not vote for a fairground improvement tax." At least that's what I meant and am pretty sure meth did too.

February 28, 2011 at 5:30 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...

Stephen Cole,

I understand your frustration with the powers that be. Ignoring them and doing it ourselves is not an option. But if the right 3 commissioners are elected, (a Majority), things could change.

And we need more transparency from the CVB on how they spend their money for tourism / events in Emporia. That MUST happen or the commission needs to stop their funding. This year, this budget.

Things in Emporia, the city, county, chamber, RDA and CVB have been done the same way by the same people for way too long. It's time for a little shake up. This election could and should be a start. If only those who are disillusioned and dissatisfied get out and vote and change things. I mean all of you YOUNGER VOTERS. the candidates are there, if you vote them in.

February 28, 2011 at 5:52 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...

TODAY AT NOON IS THE CUTOFF FOR ADVANCE VOTING !

February 28, 2011 at 5:52 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

create (anonymous) says...

Since the CVB is financed by publilc funds, there is no reason we should not expect them to make their budget public on a regular basis. Same goes for any other group like the RDA et al. The new city commission should require them to post their budgets online. We can't expect the current commission to do it since they seem so entrenched in doing things their own way with no regard to the public. I can still hear the mayor saying that they were not going to "revist" the issue of the rocks. Then the landslide of "rabid dogs" began.

February 28, 2011 at 7:32 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Blue_Dog (anonymous) says...

Steve,
Thanks for clarification. But "extending, continuning, etc" of county dedicated sales taxes is sore subject. The county has done it right with sales tax for buildings they sunset when bonds are paid off. Unlike the city which has extended and renewed previous sales taxes. Like the kids song that never ends.

February 28, 2011 at 2:37 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

methusla (anonymous) says...

Correct Steve, I new what you meant !!!

February 28, 2011 at 5:16 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )